Computer conducts couple's wedding

As if more proof were needed that computers can do anything, a Texas bridegroom writes a computer program that acts as the minister at his and his bride's wedding. The virtual minister is called Rev. Bit.

If computers can create friends for you, why can't they create ministers?

This was the philosophical question that inspired Miguel Hanson, a Houston-based web developer and IT consultant as he contemplated his wedding.

As the Associated Press tells it, Hanson couldn't find an associate who would officiate at the betrothal to high school teacher Diana Wesley. So he said to himself: "Wait a minute, I am a Web developer and IT consultant. I am a Master of the Universe. One minister, coming up."

The first thought you might have if you were to create a virtual Man of God might be an appropriate name. How about Father Real-Time? Or the Bishop Apple? Hanson's choice was Rev. Bit.

So, at yesterday's ceremony, Rev. Bit was to greet the 30 or so guests, tell them a few stories about the happy couple, and then lead them through their "I do"'s.

Truly, computers can do anything.
CC Karin Dalziel/Flickr

I am delighted to report that Hanson is a geek with a sense of humor and not merely because he met his lovely bride on a site called "Sweet on Geeks" (motto: A Space Where Gray Matters.").

For he programmed Rev. Bit to declare at that most poignant moment during the ceremony when last objections may be raised: "If anyone here has anything to say that might change their minds or has any objections, they do not want to hear it and I will not recognize your objections since Miguel has programmed me to only recognize his commands."

You might be wondering how Rev. Bit knew when to pause so that the congregation could, well, say what it has to say. Hanson said that a little wireless mouse upon his person designed to keep the Virtual Reverend on the straight and narrow. (Should you be wondering about Hanson's full feelings about computer equipment, I believe this is his Web site. There is even a picture of him and his Diana.)

I am sure that you will join me in wishing this enterprising couple a wonderful marriage. I would suggest, however, that, should their marriage progress in that direction, a virtual midwife might be a little harder to design.